Department of Counseling, Foundations, and Leadership

The Department of Counseling, Foundations and Leadership offers degrees in School and Clinical Mental Health Counseling and in Educational Leadership. Additionally, the department offers graduate courses in the area of foundations to include Educational Research and Psychology. The department emphasizes instruction and rigorous application of theory through performance-based instruction that culminates in real-world experience. Instruction is augmented through technology to include computer simulations, video, and laboratory experiences on campus and in the field.

Counseling Degrees

The Mission of the CSU Counselor Education Programs:The Nationally Accredited Counselor Education Programs at Columbus State University are preparing professional mental health counselors and school counselors who are committed to providing culturally competent counseling services that enhance the mental health and well-being of children, adolescents, families, groups and couples across the lifespan and to advocate on behalf of our clients and our profession. The program is committed to academic and clinical excellence through educating counselors to be leader-practitioners. Click Here for More Information including Program Outcome Data.

Leadership Degrees

Masters in Educational Leadership: The Master of Education (online) is approved by the GA Professional Standards Commission and prepares candidates for Tier I certification in Georgia schools. Click Here for More Information

Masters in Educational Leadership Higher Education Track: You also have the option of obtaining an Ed Leadership degree with emphasis on Higher Education.

Specialist in Educational Leadership: Columbus State University is approved by the GA Professional Standards Commission to offer the new TIER II Educational Leadership certification program. The program is open for application and enrollment with initial classes beginning in Fall 2018. Click Here for More Information

Doctorate in Curriculum and Leadership: CSU's program leading to a Doctor of Education degree in Curriculum and Leadership is oriented toward promoting strong skills in assessment, research, pedagogy and content areas, leading to a high level of expertise. Students in the program also develop an in-depth understanding of educational psychology and how learning occurs. Click Here for More Information

Note for out of state students

If you will be living outside of Georgia while enrolled in courses, please visit our Program State Authorizations and Approvals page before applying to find out if Columbus State University is able to offer your program of interest where you will be living.

If you will be living internationally, or have any questions about state authorization or professional licensure authorization, please contact the State Authorization office at state_authorization@columbusstate.edu. Please include in your email:

Your name

Where you will be physically present while taking classes

Program of interest

The State Authorization office can only address questions related to state or licensing board approvals, for all other questions please contact the appropriate department: